Tucson Standard

U.S. Congressman Juan Ciscomani has introduced bipartisan legislation aimed at improving healthcare coordination for veterans eligible for both Medicare and Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) services. The bill, known as the Coordinating Care for Senior Veterans and Wounded Warriors Act (H.R. 668), seeks to address the challenges faced by senior and disabled veterans who are enrolled in both systems.

Ciscomani, representing Arizona's 6th district, is joined by Representatives Mike Turner from Ohio and Don Davis from North Carolina in this legislative effort. The initiative responds to issues raised during meetings with Ciscomani’s Veterans Advisory Council regarding fragmented and costly care due to a lack of coordination between Medicare and VA services.

The proposed legislation would establish a three-year pilot program within the VA. This program aims to enhance healthcare delivery by assigning case managers to develop individualized plans for veterans, thereby streamlining access to benefits and reducing bureaucratic hurdles.

“Our nation’s veterans risked life and limb in service to our nation; when they hang up their uniform they deserve the highest quality and standard of care,” stated Congressman Ciscomani. He emphasized that the bill intends to improve coordination between VA and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).

Congressman Turner highlighted that “this bipartisan legislation takes an important step toward improving care coordination for senior veterans enrolled in both VA services and Medicare.” Meanwhile, Congressman Davis stressed the necessity of establishing a pilot program to explore new methods of assisting veterans.

The bill has garnered support from several organizations including the Wounded Warrior Project, Paralyzed Veterans of America, Elizabeth Dole Foundation, CareSource Military & Veterans, and Easterseals.

Jose Ramos from the Wounded Warrior Project expressed support for the initiative, noting its potential impact on younger veterans using Medicare due to military-related injuries. Ted Painter from CareSource Military & Veterans remarked on its importance in addressing dual enrollment challenges. Steve Schwab of the Elizabeth Dole Foundation pointed out how it could help veterans better utilize VA programs.

Kendra Davenport of Easterseals praised the legislation as a fulfillment of obligations towards veterans' care. Heather Ansley from Paralyzed Veterans of America noted that dual reliance on VA healthcare and Medicare often leads to inefficiencies that this act seeks to resolve.

The full text of H.R. 668 is available online for those interested in further details about this legislative proposal.